rookie | caitlin clark (ON HOLD)

05 | its milos fault

monday, june 24 indianapolis

The sun had barely risen, and I was already fumbling around my apartment. My alarm buzzed again, but instead of dragging myself out of bed, I hit snooze, deciding I deserved a bit more rest. Milo, sensing my laziness, curled back up at the foot of my bed, his tail thumping softly.

Today was supposed to be a busy day with the Fever's practice session, but for once, I let myself drift back to sleep, figuring I could afford the extra rest. When I finally woke up, it was almost noon. Panic set in as I realized I had missed the entire practice.

"Miloooo, why didn't you wake me up?" I groaned, stumbling out of bed. He just wagged his tail, clearly unbothered by the change in schedule.

I quickly checked my phone, half-expecting a barrage of missed calls and messages. There was one text from Rachel, asking where I was, and another from Sarah

sarah🫶🏻
Feeling up for a drink tonight?
Meet me at Jack's Bar around 7?

I sighed, feeling a mix of guilt and relief. I shot a quick text to Rachel, apologizing for oversleeping and promising to catch up on work. Then, I texted Sarah back:

julia
"Sure, I'll be there. Need a drink after today!"

The day passed in a blur as I caught up on writing and editing from home, trying to make up for lost time. By the time evening rolled around, I was ready for a break. I fed Milo, gave him a quick walk, and then got ready to meet Sarah.

Jack's Bar was a cozy spot, popular with locals for its laid-back vibe and great drink specials. As I walked in, I spotted Sarah at a corner table, waving me over.

"Hey, Julia! Long day?" she asked, sliding a drink menu towards me.

"You have no idea," I replied, collapsing into the seat across from her. "I missed the Fever practice because I overslept."

Sarah laughed, shaking her head. "We all have those days. Don't sweat it."

We ordered our drinks, and the conversation quickly flowed from work to more personal topics. It felt good to unwind and just chat without any pressure.

"So, what's new with you?" I asked, taking a sip of my cocktail.

"Not much. Just the usual grind. But I have been talking to this guyy..." Sarah trailed off, a mischievous grin on her face.

"Oh, spill! Who is he?" I leaned in, genuinely curious.

"Just a guy from work. We've gone out a couple of times, but I'm not sure where it's going yet," she said, twirling her straw.

"Omg is it your camera man, you guys look so good together!" She didn't say anything but just smiled really hard.

We spent the next hour talking about relationships, work drama, and everything in between. It was refreshing to just let loose and be ourselves. The bar was filled with the hum of conversations and laughter, creating a comfortable backdrop for our catch-up session.

"So, any guys on your radar?" Sarah asked, raising an eyebrow.

I shrugged. "Not really. I've been so focused on work that I haven't had much time for dating. But who knows, maybe that'll change soon."

Sarah nodded. "Yeah, work can be a lot. But don't forget to have fun, too."

As the night went on, we shifted topics, talking about our favorite movies, the latest trends, and funny childhood memories. The drinks kept coming, and the atmosphere grew even more relaxed.

"You know, I really needed this," I admitted, feeling the warmth of the alcohol and the comfort of good company. "It's been a crazy few weeks."

"Same here," Sarah said. "Sometimes it's nice to just unwind and forget about work for a while."

By the time we left the bar, it was late, and the city had settled into a peaceful quiet. We walked back to my car, the cool night air sobering us up a bit.

"Thanks for tonight, Sarah. I had a great time," I said, giving her a hug.

"Anytime, Julia. Let's do this more often," she replied with a smile.

As I drove home, I reflected on how much my life had changed since moving to Indianapolis. I had made some amazing friends, was working a job I loved, and was starting to find a balance between work and personal life.

When I got back to my apartment, Milo greeted me with his usual enthusiasm. "Hey, buddy," I said, kneeling to give him a scratch behind the ears. "Miss me?"

He barked in response, his eyes bright with excitement. I fed him dinner and took him for a quick walk around the block, enjoying the quiet of the late night.

Back inside, I changed into my pajamas and settled on the couch with Milo. As I was watching suits with Milo I got a text from Caitlin, this is turning into a daily thing.

caitlinclark22
now I feel like your avoiding me mccarthy

juliamccarthy
why would you ever think that

caitlinclark22
well you didn't show up to practice
and I got stuck with these reporters

juliamccarthy
wellll im also a reporter so what's the difference

caitlinclark22
you're a better one + amazing questions
the team actually missed you

juliamccarthy
did the team miss me or did you?? 🧐

caitlinclark22
mostly me, but they did ask

juliamccarthy
okay well good night caitlinn

caitlinclark22
whattt i just started talking to you
swear you are ditching me

juliamccarthy
so clingy, i'll see you tomorrow

caitlinclark22
you said that yesterday...

juliamccarthy
I pinky promise i'll show up this time

caitlinclark22
okok well good night juli

juliamccarthy
night clark

With a contented sigh, I walked to my room got tucked into bed with Milo and I closed my eyes, ready to rest and recharge for another day of reporting for practice, for real this time.

authors note
Yea idk what this was 🦦
BUT—Thank everyone for the support on my first book. I'm truly so beyond grateful, hopefully I can continue to give you guys chapters throughout this week and the following.

And if your new, WELCOME!!! Please don't be a silent reader, your comments always make a story better!!! Thanks again, don't forget to vote!!!